EDM Trash to Watch (and potentially obsess over) 2024

Another year begins!!!11! Let's hope this one goes slower than the past 3.

On the positive side - there is some renaissance going on in the scene. Though those leading it are people who started doing this 5+ years ago.

The scene ain't the only one with changes. We also have huge things coming in 2024, so sign up for the TrashLetter by clicking here; you'll get a daily song with a short story, maybe some news, and definitely a rant or two.

Now - Originally this was supposed to be a quiz. Then it all came crashing down by the deadline so you get a PLAN OLD BORING LIST.

On the upside this is the first post below 1k words so that counts for something... right?

QUICK UPDATE: We're not even through the first week, and there's already a fire in EDM Twitter. At the time of Final Revising (1/7/2024), people are arguing about ghost-producing. I don't have a dog in this fight, but it sure is comforting to know EDM Twitter is up to its antics !

Alright, Let's start:

1. No Mana: Although this is more of a hopium pick, the voices tell me that after four years of secrecy, No Mana is due to release something massive. It's been 4 years since Secret Level (which deserves its own deep dive), and the current singles signal to a potential album.

Here is something while we wait.

2. Kaloa: Sounds like the spiritual successor (including rates of releases) of Dawn Wall and Mohican Sun. Kaloa is a MUST to keep an ear on if you're into that type of liquid. ENSO was a fantastic release, and he has become a one-hit wonder.

3. Archangel: This guy released five (!) heater EPs in 2023 alone. Archangel's entire discography is gold. I highly recommend that you listen to it. I can only imagine how many releases he has coming this upcoming year. And if he keeps it up the dumpster dive on him will be infinite.

4. (and 5. - he's that good) Space Laces: The Mix King hopefully has something big in store for 2024, whether it's another EP or an album. He is the Master Baiter Wizard of Balls, making his releases random and rare. (If he releases New Challenger I'll give a random reader $50)

6. HiveMind: Now Now Don't call me lazy - But this is a collab between Space Laces, Must Die, and Kayzo. It sounds like fresh, fast and heavy sound that will blow the minds of weaklings and untrained ears away. Having seen the teasers, I can confidently say it will be amazing. In fact let me embed one right now, lol.

7. Porter Robinson: Rumor has it that Virtual Self will return, and I mean... Wolrds is turning 10, so there has to be a 10th anniversary celebration, no? Worlds remains one of the best albums I've ever heard. Robinson's invention of the complextro genre is also certified to get a pedestal in my part of the dumpster.

8. IMANU: Look, homie's been building an unmatched momentum. He's teased another 9 songs EP, and he's known to over-deliver. Not including it would be a massive insult. + Maybe this is the year the Paradise review drops (Almost done editing !)

9. Shadient: He's back on tour and some IDs on his belt HAVE to be released. HE IS HERE EP was a great addition to his discography and his WHOISTHERE mix is one of the hardest mixes I've heard all year. Must watch for riddim fiends.

These are part of the Hopium Beyond Delusion list:

- JOYRYDE (Needs to get back on the DAW)

-Xilent

- Shelter (lol)

As for predictions (everyone loves those !)

I'm betting that genuine complextro-type electro will return in 2024. We saw a resurgence with No Mana's Electromag (which didn't really go anywhere, lol). I believe this time around, artists will commit to making it more prominent. We need more complextro and melodic tunes – I'm tired of the same 5 songs played at festivals.

Another funny one is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). People are becoming more curious and specific about where their music comes from. As AI advances, it's not surprising that some may attempt to cut corners by creating songs and even entire projects with this. This growing trend is something to keep an eye on in 2024. (and there is much more to write about the topic.

There's a third prediction... But that will be hidden inside the Trashletter. So if you are interested, you can join the list through the form below.